Episode 19 - How Tony Crolla Turned a Family Dream into a Hospitality Empire
Posted by Emma on 10th Jul 2019
In the latest episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios dives into an engaging conversation with Tony Crolla, CEO and chairman of Edinburgh’s renowned Vittoria Group. This episode isn’t just a story of success—it’s a masterclass in navigating family business dynamics, taking calculated risks, and maintaining the essence of hospitality while scaling up. Whether you’re a fish and chip shop owner, a small business entrepreneur, or someone passionate about food and community, this episode delivers valuable insights.
Tony shares his journey from humble beginnings in a small family-run café to overseeing a hospitality empire with over eight locations and nearly 270 staff. The conversation is peppered with anecdotes reflecting his deep passion for his heritage and industry. One particularly memorable moment is Tony recounting how his father’s café in the 1970s served spaghetti cooked so soft that it was “as white as snow”—a nod to adapting authentic Italian cuisine to Scottish tastes back then.
Listeners will enjoy the contrast between Tony’s early days when the business was built for survival and his current approach, which blends legacy with innovation. As Tony puts it, transitioning from a “small cake, thick slice” mentality to embracing larger-scale ambitions wasn’t just a financial decision but a personal and professional evolution. He candidly discusses the challenges of growing a family business, dealing with scepticism from his parents, and finding joy in what he describes as “the game of business.”
Tony’s charisma shines through as he reflects on the art of hospitality, stating, “People love a busy atmosphere and a good plate of pasta and wine, but not everyone can deliver it with swagger.” His pride in Vittoria Group’s Italian roots and contribution to Edinburgh’s food scene is evident, yet he remains refreshingly humble about the importance of teamwork and the loyalty of long-serving employees.
What sets this episode apart is its relevance to a broad audience. Tony’s insights into managing scale and risk—like his preference for owning freehold properties to secure long-term growth—offer practical takeaways for small business owners. For food industry professionals, his dedication to delivering quality while embracing trends, such as casual dining at Taste of Italy or the upscale vibe of Divino Enoteca, inspires innovation.
Stelios and Tony’s easy rapport makes this episode informative and entertaining. Whether discussing the quirks of community dynamics among Italian immigrants or how a fried Mars Bar became Bertie’s best-selling dessert, every moment feels relatable and impactful.
This episode isn’t just a podcast; it’s a story of perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of excellence. Tune in to hear how Tony Crolla and the Vittoria Group continue to set the bar high in hospitality, blending tradition with modernity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to grow their business, preserve their legacy, or simply enjoy a good story.
Ready to be inspired? Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts and subscribe to the Ceres Podcast for more stories that inform, engage, and entertain. Share it with your friends in hospitality and join the conversation today!